What a Super Bowl 2026 Recovery Week Would Look Like

Behind every elite performance is a carefully planned recovery week, guided by physiotherapists whose job is to assess damage, manage load, and prepare the body to perform again. Whether you’re playing local footy, training at the gym, or working a physically demanding job, here’s what a proper recovery week actually looks like through a physio’s eyes.Through a physio’s eyes, a proper recovery week isn’t optional it’s essential for longevity, performance, and preventing setbacks. In the following sections, we’ll break down exactly what happens during a recovery week, day by day, and how each component helps the body bounce back stronger than ever.

Monday: Immediate Recovery & Reset

The game ends. The adrenaline is still high, but the body is exhausted. Physios guide players through immediate post-game protocols:

• Hydration & Nutrition: Electrolytes and protein-rich meals help kickstart muscle repair.

• Cold Therapy: Ice baths or Hydrotherapy reduce inflammation and muscle soreness.

• Initial Assessment: Trainers check for any acute injuries or strains before the first night of rest.

At this stage, the goal is simple: prevent long-term damage and begin the healing process.

Tuesday: Active Recovery

Once the initial soreness sets in, physios focus on gentle, active recovery:

• Mobility Work: Stretching and joint mobility exercises to maintain range of motion.

• Low-Impact Cardio: Swimming, cycling, or light treadmill work keeps blood flowing without overloading muscles.

• Soft Tissue Therapy: Foam rolling, massage, or myofascial release to reduce tightness and improve circulation.

This day is all about moving without straining, helping players feel more mobile while preventing stiffness.

Wednesday: Injury Prevention & Rehab

By midweek, physiotherapists start targeted rehab for any minor injuries identified during the game. This might include:

• Sprains or Strains: Bracing, taping, and controlled exercises to speed healing.

• Muscle Imbalances: Corrective exercises to prevent future injury.

• Joint Recovery: Gentle manipulation or mobility drills for shoulders, knees, or ankles.

Physios are constantly monitoring individual player needs, because recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Thursday: Performance Maintenance

Recovery week isn’t just about rest it’s also about preparing for the next season or playoff cycle. Trainers incorporate:

• Strength & Conditioning Adjustments: Light weight training to maintain muscle tone without overloading fatigued areas.

• Neuromuscular Training: Balance and coordination exercises to keep reflexes sharp.

• Recovery Modalities: Infrared therapy, compression garments, or contrast baths to optimize circulation.

The goal is returning players to peak form safely while minimizing risk of injury.

Friday: Mental Reset & Monitoring

Recovery isn’t only physical. Psychologists and performance coaches often help players:

• Reduce Mental Fatigue: Mindfulness, breathing exercises, or guided meditation.

• Reflect on Performance: Review game footage while keeping the body fresh.

• Monitor Biometrics: Sleep, heart rate variability, and other metrics ensure players are truly recovered.

A complete recovery week blends body and mind, preparing athletes for offseason training or playoff ambitions.

The Takeaway

The Super Bowl is the pinnacle of football, but what happens afterward matters just as much. Recovery week is where physios and performance teams repair, maintain, and optimize every player. From ice baths to mobility drills, massage therapy to mental reset sessions, it’s an intense, meticulous process and one that ensures athletes leave the field stronger and healthier.